Liverpool manager Arne Slot wants Federico Chiesa to stay at the club this summer despite speculations linking the forward with an exit.
The Italian winger came off the bench to net the Reds third goal in the 4-2 opening day win over Bournemouth on Friday night, the goal being his first goal in the English Premier League.
Chiesa, 27, joined the club last summer in a £12 million deal from Juventus but has struggled for playing time with injuries limiting his chances in the team.
Speaking after the match as they began their title defense with a win over the Cherries, Slot expressed desire to keep Chiesa at the club, emphasizing his importance.
“As long as he’s here, it’s definitely at Liverpool and I have no reason to believe something is going to change. He had a hard time last season getting his fitness ready”, Slot said.
“Unfortunately for him he missed out on our Asian tour as well so he missed quite a lot. When we needed Federico at 2-2, we brought him in and he delivered and that’s always positive for your future at the club.
Hugo Ekitike opened the scoring for the Reds in the first half on an emotional night at Anfield, before Cody Gakpo doubled the lead after the break.
Antoine Semenyo scored twice in the second half to bring Bournemouth back on level terms, before Chiesa struck late moments after coming on to put Liverpool back in the lead
“After the fans sung for him so many times during the game and last season as well, I think it’s nice for him to give them something in return and that’s definitely what he did today”, Slot continued.
Mohamed Salah rounded up scoring with a late fourth as the Reds started their campaign on a high note.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
